State parks propose fee hikes

Fees at Slide Rock State Park in Sedona could double during the peak season if a State Parks Board proposal to balance its budget is approved.

By Howard Fischer

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Phoenix, AZ – Budget problems mean some state parks in rural areas could end upbeing open fewer hours.

The Parks Board is facing a $1.5 million gap between itsoperating budget and the money it has to spend. The result isthat up to 30 workers -- close to one out of every 10 -- aregoing to have to be let go.

Oracle State Park will be closed togeneral public use. And plans under discussion include havingSlide Rock open only five days a week from November throughJanuary. Homolovi Ruins also will go on a five-day-a-weekschedule and close its campgrounds entirely.

But that won't beenough to balance the budget. Board spokeswoman Ellen Bilbreysaid higher fees also are likely.

"Part of the budget problem is that some of the parks are notbringing enough fees in to that park to operate that park. Now,understand, the state parks are not supposed to be making money,But we'd like to see if they could break even."

The proposal being considered would hike admission fees at AlamoLake, Homolovi Ruins, Lost Dutchman, Lyman Lake and Roper Lakestate parks by 60 percent, from $5 to $8. And at Slide Rock, oneof the more popular sites, entrance would double, to $20 duringthe peak use period from the Friday before Memorial Day throughLabor Day.

Other proposed changes would eliminate seasonalreduced rates at some parks, hike the fees for those who arriveon bicycle or foot and charge more for overnight camping.